[size=14pt]250 in jail for kidnapping in Edo[/size]
By Jethro Ibileke
September 12, 2011 07:11PM


Over 250 persons are presently in prison custody and another hundred with the police, awaiting trial for kidnapping in Edo State, the state governor, Adams Oshiomhole disclosed on Monday.

Mr. Oshiomhole, who announced this when he paid a visit to Tes Soare, the Benin-based PDP leader who was abducted two weeks ago by unknown gunmen, also said the state government is re-strategising and putting measures in place to tackle the incidence of kidnapping and other violent crimes in the state.

“We met to review current strategies and we are looking at fresh initiatives to combat this atrocity,” said Mr Oshiomhole.

According to the governor, “we are taking steps to put measures in place to hold regular security meetings with security agencies and the military to see how we can combine efforts to tame these crimes, particularly kidnapping. That was why we set up the joint military police patrol.” Mr Oshiomhole further noted that over 100 die-hard kidnappers have been arrested while more than 250 are in prison awaiting trial.

He disclosed that government has also enacted a law to deal with kidnapping and is also proposing an amendment for the offence to attract the maximum penalty.

“I want to assure you that we will continue as a government to do all we can to protect lives and properties. We will do all we can to ensure that the perpetrators of the crime are brought to book sooner than later.”

Employ the youth

Commiserating with Mr Sorae on the death of his wife and driver during the kidnap attempt, Mr Oshiomhole said: “you are one of the most respected and prominent persons who have confidence in the state, which is why you have invested your resources in the state.

You have helped to create jobs and you are running your business which helps to add value to the economy of the state. We are proud of you.” In the condolence register opened for the late industrialist’s wife, Mr Oshiomhole wrote: “Mama, it hurts that you departed in the manner that you did. But we cannot protest even as we mourn. May the Good lord in his infinite mercies grant the departed rest in his bosom. Amen.” Mr Soare thanked the governor for the visit, saying as a Christian, he has put the incidence behind him. He urged the government to do more in the area of youth employment saying this would greatly help curb the incidence of kidnapping.

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